We offer an Orthoptics teaching program.
Orthoptists work with an ophthalmologist. Their role is to assess, diagnose and perform non-surgical treatment of disorders related to eye alignment and binocular function. Disorders can include strabismus, diplopia and amblyopia. Orthoptists may also perform other types of diagnostic testing including visual fields or ophthalmic photography.
An orthoptist is a person that is qualified by post-secondary education and successfully completes a three-part certifying examination by the Canadian Orthoptic Council.
An orthoptist can work in a variety of settings. In North America orthoptists mainly work in hospitals in major/larger cities, or in private offices with an individual ophthalmologist.
Hours of work will vary depending on the location of employment.
Candidates must have
- successfully completed an undergraduate degree at a recognized university
- excellent communication skills (written and oral)
- adapt well to children and adults
The teaching program at BC Children's Hospital is an intensive 24 consecutive months in length. A major emphasis is placed on, hands on clinical experience. The program begins in July, every two years.
Lectures will be incorporated throughout the program. Subjects include:
- Binocular function
- Optics
- Treatment of visual and motility disorders
- Diagnostic testing
- Ocular and orbital Anatomy/Neuro Anatomy
- Systemic diseases
- Child development
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
- Low vision
Two students are accepted to the program every two years.
The application will include:
- University transcripts
- Personal essay
- Letters of recommendation
Once applications have been reviewed, selected candidates will be notified by April of the starting year.
The Vancouver Orthoptic Teaching Program strives to mentor individuals to become positive, well rounded and respected Allied health care workers. To learn more about our goals, click here.
